Hi, my name is Reagan Beauchamp and I am a junior majoring in criminal justice and international studies with a minor in French. I graduated from high school in San Diego, California, but with a mom in the Marine Corps, I moved frequently across the United States. In some ways the moves weren’t all bad because it allowed me to experience many different lifestyles and gain friends all across the country. It also influenced my choice of college majors. Since middle school my career goals have included travel, adventure, and a job where I could really make a difference in the world. After the events of 9/11 my focus was sharpened, and now I’d like to work in foreign service or within a federal branch of law enforcement.

My college search was extensive. I visited colleges up and down the East Coast from Pennsylvania to Florida and looked at schools with student populations as small as 1,000 to as large as 30,000. In the end, it was evident to me that a small school offering both intimacy and career opportunities would be the one for me. I don’t remember how, but Lycoming came onto my radar and immediately I knew this was the place for me. And since I’ve been enrolled, every day I get to enjoy small classes, friendly interactions with faculty, and studying and hanging out with my many friends.

Criminal justice is one of the larger majors here at Lycoming. It’s a great program because there are so many opportunities for employment after college. But be warned…it’s a tough curriculum with courses taken not only in CJ, but in sociology, political science, ethics, and also to satisfy Lyco’s liberal arts requirements. While many of my classmates will go on to jobs after graduation, some of us plan on grad school.

The opportunities for internships are excellent in the Williamsport community. Whether your interests are juvenile probation, law enforcement, corrections, law, or government, you will find valuable real-life experience just two blocks away in downtown Williamsport. We also have an active Criminal Justice Society and even a CJ Honors Society.

I spent the past summer in France (remember that French minor I was talking about?). It was an amazing experience taking classes, living with my host family, and enjoying weekend treks across Europe. Who knows where it will all lead. When the time comes, however, I have to make a decision…do I apply to graduate school (hopefully Georgetown University’s Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service) or do I follow in my mom’s footsteps and attend the Marine Corps Officer Candidate School. Whichever way I choose, Lycoming has given me a strong educational foundation and I have complete confidence that a successful future awaits me. Good luck in your search!